If you’ve ever been through a large remodeling project you know there are always surprises behind the walls, under the floors and even in the new cabinets and fixtures. Hundreds of decisions need to be made, finishes need to be checked and everyone needs to be up to date on progress for the project to run smoothly.

This photo shows how we can combine photo and note-taking technology to communicate challenges to clients and subcontractors right from the job site.

In one recent remodeling job in Camas, Washington that we completed, the owners spent the entire project in China tending to business interests. At that distance it can be difficult to bridge communication barriers. China is about 15 hours ahead of us in the Pacific Northwest. Still, we could exchange calls, texts, and emails early in the morning and late afternoon/early evening here. And since this was essentially a whole-house renovation, encompassing the kitchen, downstairs bathroom, built-ins, flooring, master bedroom and master bathroom, there was plenty to do and plenty to communicate.

Our aid came from an Apple iPad 2. Using an Adobe app, we took photos on the job site, made notes and drawings on those photos and shared them instantly with the client, so they could clearly see what we planned or what decisions needed to be made. Using Apple FaceTime on the iPad we can also do video tours around the house while we talk to our clients in real time. We can use the same technologies to communicate with subcontractors and vendors, keeping them up to date on the project.

It’s a technology we now use for many of our jobs because it speeds up communication and can allow the client to make decisions while they are at work, on vacation, or even in China. Ultimately, good communication leads to greater trust, which keeps projects running smoothly and leads to the beautiful results clients expect and deserve.

Be sure to like the Fazzolari Facebook page to be automatically entered to win any of our drawings. We often give away iPads. And, if you’re considering building a new home or looking to remodel some or part of your home, contact Fazzolari Custom Homes and Renovations for a free consultation.